Motor-actuated switch



April 1932- M. H. GREENEWALT 1,854,547

MOTOR ACTUATED SWITCH Original Filed April 26, 1924 4 Sheets-Sheet lFlyl April 1932- M. H. GREENEWALT 1,854,547

MOTOR ACTUATED SWITCH Original Filed April 26, 1924 4 Sheets-Sheet 2April 19, 1932. M. H. GREENEWALT 1,854,547

MOTOR ACTUATED SWITCH- Original Filed April 26, 192 4 Sheets-Sheet 31924 4 Sheets-Sheet 4 April 19, 1932. M. H. GREENEWALT MOTOR ACTUATEDSWITCH Original Filed April 26 Patented Apr. 19, 1932 UNITED STATESPATENT I OFFICE HALLOCK -GREENEWALT, F PHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIAMOTOB-ACTUATED SWITCH Original application filed April 26, 1924,'Seria1No. 709,283. Patent No. 1,793,284, dated February 17, 1931.

Divided and this application filed January 7, 1927. Serial No. 159,608.

7 My invention relates to means for controlling electric energy andparticularly to motor operated mechanisms therefor. This is a di-.

vision of my application Serial 709,283, filed April 26, 1924, nowPatent Number 1,793,284

.on Feb. 17, 1931.

One object of my invention is to provide a current modifying mechanismcomprising a plurality of plural contact, fluid connector 10 switchesand means for actuating the same serially, said actuating means beingunder the volitional manual control of an operator.

Another object of my invention is to provide a current controllingmechanism having means for limiting the operation of the actuating meansin either direction of operation.

Another object of my invention is to provide a relatively simple andcompact current controlling mechanism of the fluid connector 2 type thatshall be manually or motor operated and permit of controlling relativelylarge amounts of electric energy by a relatively small number ofswitches, clean, beautiful in appearance so that concealing it is notnecessary if not desired, and carrying within itself the safety elementthat when a switch is broken through overloading it constitutes a safetyfuse. A further object of my invention is to provide an object withconfiguration, one such object varying from another, that canautomatically carry out any variousness of sequence in degree energytranslation after such has been found useful by a previous choice orneed volitionally arrived at by manual control of said energy.

A further object of my invention is to provide means for connecting upsuch a mechanically actuating configuration to a regular motive forcesuch as a motor or motor driven energy. I

In practicingmy invention I provide aplurality of tubes ofelectric-insulating material, each having a plurality of terminalmembers extending into the same and containing a quantity of electricconducting fluid, that are pivotally mounted on a suitable frame. Ashaft, having a plurality of spaced portions thereon isrotatably mountedin the frame and actuated by an electric motor that is under thevolitional control of an operator or 1t s automatic counterpart. Meansare provided for giving each of the tubes a turning movement. They arealso severally provided with means for initiating the engagement of thesuccessive tubes and with means for bemg held in their limitingpositions. .The sw1tch actuating means is provided with means forde-energizing the motor to limit the operation thereof in eitherdirection, and wlth means for automatically de-energizing the motor whencertain effects are in automatic play.

In a modified form of device embodying my invention I provide aplurality of tubes of substantially annular shape, each having aplurality of spaced contact members extending into the same andpartially filled with a suitable electric conducting fluid. Each annulartube is secured on a suitable mounting means, which has operativelyassociated therewith a gear wheel having only a part1al set of teeth.All of the annular tubes are loosely mounted in spaced relation on asuitable supporting shaft. A motor driven shaft extends parallel to andspaced from the supporting shaft and has mounted thereon a plurality ofpinions that are adapted to mesh with and actuate the annular tubesserially.

In all forms of device embodying my invention the first plural contactfluid connector tube is not permitted to become operatively disconnectedfrom the driving means.

I provide a motive power for actuating the switch mechanism that ispreferably an electric. motor under the volitional manual control of anoperator as to speed and direction of operation. I also provide anautomatically operating motive power control means comprising a memberof cam shape that is actuated by the switch mechanism and that iseffective to vary the speed of the motive power in any predeterminedsequence.

In the drawings,

Figure 1 is a view, in front elevation, of a switch mechanism embodyingmy invention,

Fig. 2 is a top plan view thereof,

Fig. 3 is a view, in end elevation, of a 100 fluid connector tube and asupporting member therefor,

Fig. 4 is a schematic representation of a control system comprising apart of my mvention,

Fig. 5 is a schematic representation of a different method of controlcomprising a part of my invention,

Fig. 6 is a diagram of connections of a motive power employed with thedevice embodying my invention,

Fig.7 is a diagram of connections of a plurality of light sourcesadapted to be controlled by a device embodying my invention,

Fig. 8 is a partial view of a device e mbodying my inventionillustrating a modification thereof,

Fig. 9 is a view, in side elevation with parts cut away of an automaticmotive power controlling device,

Fig. 10 is a top plan view of a modified form of device embodying myinvention, and,

Fig. 11 is a view, in end elevation thereof.

Referring more particularly to Figs. 1 to 3 of the drawings, 1 provide avertically extendin shaft 21 the lower end of which is locate in a suitale step bearing 22 which is in turn, secured to a base member 23 o askeleton framework 24. The step bearin 22 is secured to the member 23 bya plur ity of machine bolts 25. The shaft 21 is provided with aplurality of screw threaded sections 26, 27, and 28, the screw threadswhereof are relatively deep and are preferably square. The hereinbeforementioned screw threaded portions or sections are separated by portionsof the shaft 21 having no screw threads thereon and designated by thenumerals 29 and 31 respectively.

The frame 24 comprises the hereinbefore mentioned bottom member 23, avertically extending side member 32 and a plurality of horizontallyextending portions numbered respectively 33, 34, 35 and 36. The free endof the member 33 is provided with a removable cap member 37 and has anopening there through to receive the upper plain end 38 of the shaft 21and permit rotation thereof. The member 34 is provided with asubstantially similar cap 39, while the members 35 and 36 have capmembers 41 and 42 associated therewith. All of the cap members arebolted against the outer end portions of the respective members by aplurality of bolts 43. While the cap member 37 co-operates with theouter end of the member 33 to constitute a bearing for the upper end ofthe shaft, the other cap members do not necessarily constitute bearingmembers and the openings therethrough may be slightly larger than theexternal diameter of the shaft.

A worm gear 44 is secured to the lower end of the shaft 21 immediatelyabove the step bearing and is operatively engaged by a worm 45 that ismounted on the outer end of the shaft of anelectric motor 46 which is,in turn, bolted to the upper surface of the member 23.

The members 33, 34, 35, and 36 are spaced a suitable distance apart topermit of mounting between respectlve pairs of these members a pluralcontact, fluid connector switch comprisin an elongated tube 47 of a suitable electric-insulating material, such as glass or quartz. The tube 47is mounted against one side of a bar 48 of a suitable electric-'insulating material such as asbestos lumber or bakelite. Suitableclamping straps 49 and 51 may be employed to hold the tube 47 a ainstits supporting plate 48. The tube 47 as a plurality of contact terminals52, 53, 54, 55, and 56 extending into the same, the outer ends thereofbeing connected to suitable contact terminals that are mounted on theplate 48 immediately above the tube 47 substantially as illustrated inFig. 1 of the drawings. A quantity 57, of a suitable conducting fluidsuch as mercury, is placed withinthe tube which may either be evacuated,or may be filled with a suitable gas or gases that are adapted toprevent as far as possible, the formation 0 sparks or arcs during theoperation of the switch or surface oxidization of the conductin fluid.

A plurality o flexible conductors may be employed to connect theterminals on the bar 48 to fixed contact terminals mounted on a plate ofelectric-insulating material (not shown) that is, in turn, securedagainst the skeleton framework, or if desired, a supply circuitconductor and a plurality of con-' ductors connecting the terminals onthe bar 48 to the light sources to be controlled, may be employed. Aseither of these constructions may be employed in accordance to theparticular conditions and as such details are well known in the art, Ihave not illustrated them in detail.

The plate 48 is pivotally mounted, at its rear end, by means of asuitable hinge member 58 on the member 34 adjacent to the verticallyextending member 32. A spring member 59 that has one end connected tothe member 33 and its other end connected to the top of the plate 48yieldingly holds the plate and switch in their upwardly tilted positionwherein the upper and forward corner of the plate 48 operatively enga esthe under surface of the member 33. lug 61 is secured to the lower endof a spring member 62, the upper end of which is suitably securedagainst a project-ing upward shoulder at the front end of the plate 48,a spring 63 being providedat the lower end of the member 62 to press theplate 48.

Means for holding the switch member in its fully operative positioncomprises a rethat is secured to the upper surface of the the lug 61outwardly from ran member 34 where it may be engaged by a suitablyshaped lug 65 that is mounted on the rear surface of the plate 48.

A substantially similar switch member comprising a tube 47 a and a plate48a is pivotallv mounted on the upper surface of the member 35 and athird switch member comprising a tube 47?) and a plate 485 is similarlymounted, on the upper surface of the member 36. As all of the switchmembers and other appurtenances hereinbefore described in connectionwith the uppermost switch are the same, I have not thought it necessaryto describe or number the respective switches in detail and have alsoillustrated them in different positions. Whereas the uppermost switch isshown in its fully operative position, the intermediate switch member isshown in its intermediate position, while the lowermost switch isillustrated as in its normal inoperative position.

Means are provided on all switch members except the lowermost one forinitiating the actuation of ,a successive switch and this meanscomprises a lug 66 that is suitably secured against the lower edge orface of the plate 48 and that is adapted to extend through an opening 67in the supporting member substantially as illustrated in the upper partof Fig. 1.

Suitable means (not shown) may be provided to serve as guide members forthe forward end of the switch supporting bars 48, 48a and 48b in theirturning movement to prevent any movement laterally thereof as a resultof the friction between the screw threads and the lugs 61.

While I have illustrated a switch mechanism comprising three pluralcontact fluid connector switches, I do not wish to be limited to thisparticular number as any .suitable number of such switches may beemployed and be operated serially or successively in a manner to behereinafter set forth in detail. vWhile I have illustrated a switchprovided with five terminal contact members, I may employ any number ofsuch contact terminals as may be found possible to embody or associatewith such a switch, or as may be found desirable.

The upper end of the shaft 21 projecting through the upper bearinghereinbefore described is reduced in diameter as indicated by thenumeral 68 and has mounted thereon a suitable pinion 69. The pinion 69meshes with a gear wheel 71 that is mounted on a short shaft 7 2 that isrotatably mounted in the upper surface of the member 33. A pinion 73 ismounted on the shaft 72 and meshes with a gear wheel 74 that is looselymounted on a short shaft 75 mounted on and supported by the member 33. Adial 76 is secured on the upper end of the shaft 75 and has a suitablescale marked thereon. This scale is indicated generally only by thenumeral 77 in Fig. 2 of the drawings and is preferably during theoperation of the switch mechamsm.

Means for limiting the turning movement of the shaft 21 in eitherdirection of opera tion comprise two limit switches 79 and 81 that aresupported on the upper surface of the member 33. Each of the limitswitches comprises a fixed contact terminal 82 and a movable contactthat is carried by a spring arm 83, both the fixed contact terminal andthe movable contact terminal being suitably insulated from the metalmember 33. The two limit switches are located in oppositely spacedpositions relatively to each other and are adapted to be engaged by apin 84 that extends through the gear wheel 74at both sides thereof, oneof the limit switches being located above the upper face of the gearwheel 74, while the other limit switch is located below the gear wheel.

In Fig. 6 of the drawings I have illustrated a diagram of connectionsfor the motor 46, which is here shown as a shunt wound direct currentmotor in order to more clearly describe its control. although of courseany suitable or desired type of motor may be em ployed. Suitable sunnlvcircuit conductors 85 and 86 are connected to the fixed terminals of a.two-pole double throw switch 87. A fixed terminal member 88 at the righthand side of the switch 87 is connected to one ter minal of the armatureof the motor 46 through one of the limit switches, for example limitswitch 79. A second terminal 89 is connected to a pivotally mountedlever 91 that is secured against the under surface of a table top 92, aspring member 93 being provided to yieldingly hold the lever 91 in itsinoperative position. An actuating button 94 is secured to the free endof the lever 91 and extends through the top 92 to permit an operator toeffect a turning movement of the lever 91, whereby part or all of aresistor member 95 may be cut out of the circuit of the armature of themotor 46. The second limit switch 81 is connected between the contactterminal 89 and a diagonally opposite stationary contact terminal 96. Asecond sta- .tionary contact terminal 97 is located at the left handside of the switch and is electrically connected to the same terminal ofthe motor armature as is the switch terminal 88.

The general construction of the switch and of the electrical connectionsof the same with the manually controlled resistor 95 is such that themotor will rotate in a predetermined direction when the contact bridgingmembers of the switch 87 operatively engage the terminals 88 and 89respectively. The speed I of rotation of the motor is determined by theamountof resistance cut out of the circuit of the armature of the motor,and the duration of its operation is determined by the length of timeduring which the operator depresses the lever 91. When the contactbridging members of the switch 87 are moved in the opposite direction sothat the contact terminals 96 and 97 are engaged, the motor runs in theopposite direction at a speed that is in accordance with the amountwhich the lever 91 is depressed.

While I have illustrated, in'Fig. 1 of the drawings, a single set ofswitches, I may employ plural sets of switches and I have illustratedtwo such switches actuated substantially simultaneously in Fig. 8 of thedrawings. I have there illustrated a double frame, the left hand framebeing substantially the same as the right hand frame and comprising avertically-extending side member 98, a horizontally extending uppermember 99 and a lower member 101. The inner ends of the respectivemembers 34, 35, 99, and 101 are enlarged in substantially the samemanner as is shown for the member 33 in Fig. 2 of the drawings, andthese ends are held together in proper operative position by a pluralityof machine bolts 102. A second switch member 103, comprising a tubularmember 47 and a supporting plate 48, is mounted in opposed relation tothe first switch member located at the right hand side of the shaft 21.As the construction and operation of the switch mem-' ber 103 issubstantially the same as for those hereinbefore described, it is notdeemed necessary to further describe it in detail. The left hand frameis substantially a duplicate of the right hand frame hereinbeforedescribed and more particularly illustrated in Fi 1 of the drawings.While I have shown only a portion of the switch mechanism in Fig. 8, theconstruction of the entire device 3 will be evident therefrom.

While I have illustrated, in Fig. 8 of the drawings, two switchesbetween the pairs of horizontally extending members, any suitable ordesired number of such switches may be employed. For instance, byproviding three skeleton frames spaced equi-distantly in a horizontalplane around the shaft 21, I am enabled to mount three such switchesinstead of two as illustratedin Fig. 8 of the drawings. Similarly byproviding four skeleton frames equi-distantly spaced I may mount foursuch switches and actuate them substantially simultaneously. Thisconstruction permits of increasing the capacity of the switch mechanismby the simple expedient of increasing the number of fluid connectorswitches that are actuated substantially simultaneously. One motor mayactuate a plurality of such switch mechanisms whereby the illuminationof all parts of an auditorium may be simultaneously controlled.

In Figs. 10 and 11 of the drawings I have illustrated a modified form.of device embodying my invention, in which I employ fluid connectortubes of substantially annular form instead of the elongated formhereinbefore described. A base plate 104 has mounted thereon a pair ofspaced hearing members 105 and 100 that su port a shaft member 107. Theshaft member 107 has mounted thereon a plurality of annular tubes 108,109, and 111 that are substantially identical in construction. Each ofthe tubes 108, 109, and 111 comprises an annulus of a suitable electric-insulating material, such as quartz or glass, that has a plurality ofspaced contact terminals 112 extending into the tube through the outerperipheral surface thereof. As all of the terminal members are of thesame construction I have designated them by the same number. I haveillustrated eight such terminal members spaced substantiallyequidistantly from each other and extendin over slightly more thanninety degrees 0 the periphery. A quantity 113 of a suitable conduct-ingfluid, such as mercury, is located within the respective annular tubesand is just suflicient to fill substantially one half the interior ofthe tube.

Each of the annular tubes is clamped between two coo erating plates 114and 115 that are each 0, substantially circular shape, and are heldtogether by a plurality of machine screws 116. The respective plates 114and 115 are provided with a roove in their opposing outer edges that isof such diameter as to receive the annular tube lined with a protectingmaterial and to hold it tightly between the two plates. The annulartubes, together with the supporting plates, are loosely mounted on theshaft 107 and areheld in spaced relation by pairs of collars 117 and 118that are secured on the shaft in any suitable manner. The annular tubesare therefore free to turn on the shaft but are prevented fromlongitudinal movement relatively thereto.

The annular tube 108 has a gear wheel 119 operatively associatedtherewith by being suitably secured against the outer surface of theplate 115, while the tube 109 has a gear wheel 121 operativelyassociated therewith, and the tube 111 has a gear wheel 122 associatedtherewith. The tubes therefore turn with the respective gear wheels.

A second shaft 123 is supported in a plurality of bearing members 124and 125 on the base 104 and is alined substantially parallel to theshaft 107: A worm gear wheel 126 is mounted on the shaft 123 adjacent toone end thereof, and is operatively engaged by a worm 127 that ismounted on the outer end of the shaft of a suitable driving motor 128which is, in turn, mounted on a supportin base 129 located on the baseplate 104 in order that it assess? may be located 1properly relativelyto the worm gear whee 126. Collars 131 are secured to the shaft 123outside of the bearing members 124 and 125 to revent any longitudinalmovement of the s aft in its bearings. A plurality of pinions 132, 133,and 134 are secured to the shaft 123 and are so located that under theproper conditions of operation they may mesh with the gear wheels 119,121 and 122 respectively. Each of the hereinbefore described gear wheelsis provided with teeth over a portion only of its periphery for apurpose to be hereinafter described in detail.

The flexible lead wires from the respective contact terminals of thetubes 108, 109, and 111 extend to stationary contact terminals mountedon terminal boards 135, 136, and 137 respectively, the contact terminalsmounted thereon being so constructed as to permit of conductorsindicated by the numeral 138 to be connected thereto.

A limit switch 139 is provided in such location as to be operated by amember 141 that a is mounted on the plate 114 associated with theannular tube 108 and is efiective to open the energizing circuit of themotor 128 when the tube 108 has been given a turning movement in aclockwise direction as viewed from the right hand end of the shaft 107,andit is desired to terminate the turning movement thereof. A similarlimit switch 142 is mounted on the bearing member 105 and is actuated bya pin 143 that is carried by the gear wheel I 122. The limit switch 142is effective to limit the operation of the motor in causing a turningmovement of the gear wheel 122 in a counter clockwise direction asviewed from the right hand end of the shaft 107.

In actual operation the turning movement of the gear wheel 119 andtherefore of the tube 108 is terminated while the pinion 132 is still inmesh with the teeth of the gear wheel 119. The turning movement of thegear wheel 122 in a counter clockwise direction is terminated while theteeth thereof are still in mesh with the pinion 134. Means forinitiating the operation of the gear wheel 121 are constituted by a pin144 mounted on the gear wheel 119 and effective to operatively engage apin 145 carried by the gear wheel 121. Means for initiating theoperation of the gear wheel 122 is constituted by a pin 146 carried bythe gear wheel 121 and eficctive to engage a pin 147 carried by the gearwheel 122. The terminal boards 136 and 137 carry resilient members 148and 149 respectively which normally engage the pins 145 and 147respectively and yieldingly hold the gear wheels 121 and 122 in theirnormal inoperative positions wherein no circuit is energized through therespective fluid connector switch tubes 109 and 111 and which also holdthe gear wheels 119 and 121 respectively in their fully energized oroperative positions.

Referring more particularl to the mechanism illustrated in Fig. 1 o thedrawings, the respective plural contact fluid connector switches areillustrated in three different positions; the uppermost switch is shownin its fully energized position, the second switch is shown in itspartially energized position, and the lowermost switch is shown in itsfully deenergized or inoperative position. In the operation of themechanism it is necessary that the member 61 of the uppermost switch bealways in engagement with the screw threads of the portion 26, and thelimit switch 79 is so arranged in relation to the pin 84 that suchengagement at the upper limit of travel of the uppermost switch 47 ismaintained. In other words, the turning movement of the uppermost switchin a clockwise direction is continued only enough to interrupt thecircuits that are established thereby and therethrough without themember 61 being disengaged from the screw threaded portion 26. This isfor the reason that when the shaft 21 is actuated in such direction asto cause a turning movement of the uppermost switch in a counterclockwise direction on its pivotal support, no means is provided toeffect operative engagement of the lug 61 with the screw threads of theportion 26 and hence the lug 61 must remain in engagement with the screwthreaded portion.

If it be assumed that the switch 87 illustrated in Fig. 6 of thedrawings be tilted to the right to engage the terminals 88 and 89 toefiect a turning movement of the tube 47 of the uppermost switch in aclockwise direction, the pin 84 will finally engage the limit switch 79and actuate the same to deenergize the motor, thereby preventing furtherrotation of the driving shaft 21. By moving the reversing switch 87 toits second operative position wherein the terminals 96 and 97 areengaged, the motor is energized to run in the opposite direction and thelimit switch 7 9 is then immediately permitted to reclose. When themotor 46 is energized to actuate the shaft 21 and to effect a turningmovement of the switches in a counter-clockwise direction and theuppermost switch has reached a position that is somewhat lower than thatillustrated by the intermediate switch in Fig. 1 of the drawings, thelug 66 secured to the supporting plate 48 engages the top of the secondor successive switch bar 48a and pushes it downwardly until the member61 operatively engages the screwthreaded portion 27. The turningmovement of the uppermost switch continues until the member 61 thereofoccupie's substantially the position illustrated in Fig. 1 of thedrawings when the lug 65 operatively engages the resilent holding means64, and the uppermost switch is held in substantially the position shownin the drawings. The intermediate switch is givena turning movement onits hinge by the continued actuation of the shaft 21 and when the lug 66carried by it operatively engages the upper edge of the supporting bar4812, the latter is given a preliminary turning movement in a counterclockwise direction until the lug 61 carried thereby engages the screwthreaded portion 28. Further actuation of the shaft 21 causes a turningmovement of the intermediate switch until it is yieldingly held in itslimiting and substantially horizontal position.

The turning movement of the lowest switch is continued until it is inalmost horizontal osition with the member 61 still fitting 'with- 1n thescrew threads of the portion 28. The limit switch 81 is so located as tobe actuated by the pin 84 to prevent further turning of the lowermostswitch, thereby ensuring that, when the motor operation is reversed, thelowermost switch is immediately ready for operation in the reversedirection.

If the motor 46 is energized to cause a turning movement of the switchesin a clockwise direction, the lowermost switch 476 is actuated first andin its upward movement the top of the bar 481) engages the end of thelug 66 of the bar 48a and effects disengagement of the lug 65 on the bar48a from the resilient holding means. At the same time the lug 61 on thebar 48a engages the screw threads of the portion 27 whereby a furthercontinuous turning movement of the switch 47a is effected. The top ofthe bar 47a engages the lug 66 in the bar 48 and the same sequence ofoperations is effected as was hereinbefore described for the bar 486 andthe lug 66 on the bar 48a. The relative location and dimensions of thecooperating parts effective in the serial actuation of the switches issuch that all of the circuits connected to one switch are energized orde-energized before the circuits connected to the next switch areenergized or de-energized whereby a plurality .of circuits may beenergized or de-energized in a predetermined sequence.

In Fig. 4 of the drawings I have illustrated a plurality of lightsources 151, 152, 153, and 154 that are electrically connected to anelongated tube 47 to be controlled thereby by a turning movementthereof. I have illustrated successive levels of an upper surface of thefluid connector 57, when the tube 47 is given a turning movement in acounter clockwise direction, by the broken lines indicated by thenumerals 155, 156, 157, 158 and 159 respectively.

supply circuit conductor 161 is connected to the first contact terminal52, while the contact terminals 53. 54, 55 and 56 are connected to oneterminal of the respective light sources. The other supply circuitconductor 162 is connected to the other side of the respective lightsources hereinbefore mentioned.

When the tube 47 is tilted farthest upwardly the fluid has the positionindicated by the line 155 and hence none of the light sources areenergized. When the tube 47 has been given a predetermined movement in acounter clockwise direction, the mercury level is indicated by the line156. This establishes a connection between the contact terminal 52 and53 and therefore energizes In Fig. 5 of the drawings I have illustratedthe use of an elongated tube switch in controlling the energization'of asingle 1i ht source through a resistor 163 that is provi ed with fourspaced leads that are connected to the respective contact terminals 53,54, 55, and 56 of the fluid connector switch. The contact terminal 56'is connected to one'end of the resistor 163 and also to one terminal ofa light source 164, the other terminal of which is connected to a supplycircuit conductor 162. When the fluid level is indicated by the line 155the light source 154 is fully de-energized. When the fluid level isindicated by the line 156 all of the resistance of the resistor 163 isconnectedin circuit with the light source 164. Further turning movementof the tube 47 so that the fluid level is indicated by the lines 157,158, and 159 successively, cuts out one portion after the other of theresistor 163, thereby increasing the current traversing the light source164 and increasing the intensity of the light produced thereby. Thisallows of a greater load being carried by a switch, since the amount ofthe sudden rush of current makes a great difference inthe carryingcapacity of such a switch. It may be noted that in the above describedoperation, the fluid connector switch varies the energy expended in anenergy-translating device, in a plurality of steps or by successivesteps.

In my copending application Serial No. 684,162, filed Jan. ,3, 1924, Ihave disclosed a system of light and color play and have indicated thatit is possible to add entire light units to others already energized,while still increasing the intensity of illumination by steps of leastvisible increments. A rheostat for controlling the energization of alight source by steps of least visible increments is disclosed andclaimed in my Patent No. 1,357,- 773. The steps of the resistor 163 inthe diagram of connections illustrated in Fig. 5 of the drawings are soselected, relatively to the light source 164, that the intensity ofillumination is increased by steps of least visible increments as theconsecutive portions of the resistor 163 are short circuited by thecontinued turning movement of the tube 47. The tube 47 illustrated inFig. 5 of the drawings may therefore represent the uppermost tube of theswitch mechanism illustrated in Fig. 1 of the drawings, that is beingemployed in controlling the illumination of an auditorium, the intensitybeing varied by steps of least visible increments. I

The diagram of connections illustrated in Fig. 4 of the drawings mayalso represent a system in which the intensity of illumination isincreased by steps of least visible increments by the successiveadditions of either an entire light unit or of a plurality thereof. Inother words the respective light sources 151, 152, 153, and 154 are soselected as to their respective intensities that the illuminationprovided thereby will be by steps of least visible increments. Theseleast visible increments of illumination may be computed to be effectivesimultaneously in various sections of the auditorium, to make areduction or an increase of illumination universal, when such plan isdesired. This may include stage, auditorium proper and street front asdesired.

If the motor 46 is constructed as a direct current shunt wound motor itmay be so energized as to operate at any predetermined speed, and itsoperation, effected by the means illustrated in Fig. 6 of the drawings,is under the direct volitional control of an operator. As theoperatorpresses downwardly on the member 94 he increases the speed of the motor,that is the greater the pressure by the operators hand, the greater thespeed of the motor. In addition, the longer the motor is permitted tooperate, the greater will be the turning movement of the actuating shaftdriven thereby and hence the greater will be the amount of turningmovement of the successive plural contact fluid connector switchesactuated by the actuating shaft.

It may be desirable at times to move the plurality of switches topredetermined positions such, for instance, as illustrated in Fig. 1 ofthe drawings, before the main line control switch is closed. In suchcases it is high ly desirable to know how many light units will beenergized or what the intensity of illumination will be when the mainline switch is closed, and the indicator on the disk 76 will give suchinformation when the scale 77 is calibrated in light units or inintensity of illumination. The operator need only continue theenergization of the driving motor until such time as the pointer 78 isopposite the proper number of light units on the scale 77 when he willeffect de-energization of the motor and then effect the closing of themain line circuit breaker.

I have illustrated such a system in Fig. 7 of the drawings whereinsupply circuit conductors 165, 166, and 167 comprise a threewire system.of supply of electric energy. A main line circuit reaker 168 controlsthe energization of all of a plurality of light sources while a remotecontrolled circuit breaker 169 controls the energization of that part ofthe light sources arranged as to give a lue light only. A second remotecontrolled circuit breaker 171 controls the energization of anotherportion of the light units that are adapted to give a red light only. Athird remote controlled circuit breaker 172 controls light sourcesgiving a white light only, while a fourth remote controlled breaker 173controls light sources giving amber light only or any other desiredspectral color, it being understood that varying quantities of light areneeded for the varying colors, since these are not found in equalproportions in artificial light. As noted above, the circuit breakers168, 169, 171, 172, and 173 may all be remote controlled by an operatorfrom a light console of the type disclosed and claimed in my co-pendingapplication, Serial No. 684,162 filed Jan. 3, 1924, while the circuitbreakers themselves may be located at any suitable or desired point withreference to the plurality of light units which may be distributed inmore or less uniform manner around an auditorium. I have illustrated apanel board 174 with a plurality of fuses 175 and 176 for each of thesubdivisions of the groups of light units and plural contact fluidconnector switches such as hereinbefore described may be connected incircuit with the respective circuit breakers 169, 171, 172 and 17 3 inorder to control the energization of the respective groups of lamps, orthe fluid connector switches may be connected in circuit with therespective subdivisions of light ulnits7 one of which is indicated bythe numera 7 If it is desired to bring up the illumination of one of thegroups of lamps, for instance that controlledby the circuit breaker 169,the

operator need only cause the closing of the main breaker 168 and then ofthe breaker 169. after which he may energize the motor 46 and operatethe same at any desired speed to effect an increase in the intensity ofillumination in any desired timed sequence. He may stop the increase ofillumination at any desired point by de-energizing the motor, and mayreduce the intensity by reversing the operation of the motor.

It may become desirable to effect automatic control of the speed of theactuating motor and Fig. 9 of the drawings illustrates schematically ameans for expecting such control. The upper end of the shaft 21illustrated in Fig. 1 of the drawings has an extension 178 thereon, thatcarries a worm 179. A worm wheel 181 is engaged and actuated thereby andis mounted on a suitable shaft 182 which carries a pinion 183. A cammemher 184 has its upper surface formed as a 7 been moved to such apoint as will permit rack bar with teeth 185 that are in engagc-.

ment with thepinion 183. The lower surface of the bar 184 is providedwith a cam surface 186 of a predetermined shape. The cam member 184moves in a supporting member 187, that may be of channel form in lateralsection and have a longitudinally extending slot 188 in the bottomportion thereof.

A two part lever189 is pivotally mounted on the member 187 and has itsouter end operatively engaging the motor speed controlling rheostat- 95illustrated in Fig. 6 of the drawings. An arm 191 extends from the lever189 and carries a roller 192 that operatively engages the cam surface186. A spring 193 ensures that the roller 192 will be pressed againstand follow the camsurface and vary the position of the lever 189relatively to the resistance 95 to vary the speed of the motor 46.

g The above described automatic control mechanism may be mounted on thetop of the skeleton frame illustrated in Fig. 1, or in any othersuitable or convenient location. As stated above the illustratedarrangement is schematic only and any equivalent mechanism'effective forthe purpose described may be employed.

It is evident that any desired time sequence of motor operation may beeffected by providing a suitable cam surface and provides an automaticcounterpart of any predetermined choice of light succession for anypurpose, whether conceived as a fine art or for the purposes ofconvenient utility, such as timing the number of seconds or minutesrequired for lowering or raising the lighting of a stage or auditorium.

Each cam surface would have its particular form or pattern in accordancewith its use or the feeling it is meant to counterpart, previouslydetermined on through the volitional choice of the operator. Thecontrolling mechanism with or without the automatic element, may be madea part of any light player console.

Should theoperator desire to fully energize a predetermined number oflight units, he may do so by efi'ecting operation of the motor for apredetermined length of time until the indicator associated therewithshows that the fluid connector switches have energization of the desirednumber of light sources when the main circuit breaker is closed. Uponclosing either the main circuit breaker or the secondary circuitbreaker, the desired number of light sources will be fully energized.

It will be remembered that I have suggest ed the use of a plurality ofsupporting frames and of fluid connector switches, and I may employ sucha mechanism in connection with the four groups of lamps illustrated inFig. 7 of the drawings. That 1s,

one of the fluid connector switches ma be connected in circuit with oneof the su ivisions of the group of lamps controlled by the breaker 169,a second fluid connector switch connected in circuit with one of thesubdivisions of the group of' lamps controlled by the breaker 171, andso on for the other two groups of lamps. As there are three or amultiple of three subdivisions in each group, illustrated in Fig. 7 ofthe drawings, the three successively actuated fluid connector switchesmay be connected to control the energization of different subdivisionsof the respective groups of light units. Hence, any desired color ofillumination may be obtained by the operator by controlling theoperation of the respective breakers 169, 171, 172, and 173. Ashereinbefore noted, a switch mechanism comprising respective pluralitiesof fluid connector switches as illustrated in Fig. 8 of the drawings,where however, only two such switches are illustrated.

Referring more particularly to the modification illustrated 1n Figs. 10and 11 of the drawings, the operation thereof is substantially asfollows: It is understood that the operation of the motor 128 wasterminated with the teeth of the pinion 132 still in mesh with the teethof the gear wheel 119. The limit switch 139 prevents the operation ofthe motor in such direction asto cause a turning movement of the gearwheel 119 in a clockwise direction as viewed from the right hand end ofthe shaft 107. The spaced terminal members 112 of the tube 108 are insubstantially the position shown by the broken lines in Fig. 10 of thedrawings, that is, they are disengaged from the connecting fluid 113 inthe tube. U on energization of the motor 128 the pinion 132 causes aturning movement of the gear wheel 119 and of the tube 108 in a counterclockwise direction, and the left hand terminal member 112 firstoperatively engages the connecting fluid 113. If this is connected toone supply circuit conductor, a circuit is established as soon as thesecond contact terminal operatively engages the connecting fluid. It isevident that the connectin fluid remains in substantially the sameposition while the annular tube is undergoing a turning movement on theshaft 107 by the gear wheel 119.

As the pinion 132 continues its turning movement and effects acorresponding turning movement of the gear wheel 119, one contactterminal after another is moved into engagement with the connectingfluid 113, thereby energizing the light sources electrically connectedthereto. When the turning movement of the gear wheel 119 has continuedto such a degree that the pin 144 operatively engages the member 145,the gear wheel 121 is given a turnin movement until the teeth thereonoperative y mesh with the teeth of the pinion 133. At about this timethe gear wheel 119 has been moved to such a position that the last tooththereof is out of engagement with the pinion 132, after which no furtherturning movement of the gear wheel 119 can take place, and the latter 15held in its normal operative position by the i-l'lgagement of the pin144 with the resilient holding member 148. In this position all of thespaced terminal members 112 are in engagement with the connecting fluidin the tube 108.

Further turning movement of the shaft 123 causes a corresponding turning-movement of the gear wheel 121, and a successive energization of lightsources connected to the respective terminal members extending into thetube 109. When the member 146 engages the member 147 the gear wheel 122is given a turning movement that effects the meshing thereof with thepinion 134. The gear wheel 122 is then permitted to remain in its normaloperative position with the member 146 engaging the resilient member149, further turning movement thereof being prevented by the lack offurther teeth in the gear wheel 121.

The operation of the motor 128 may continue until the member 143 engagesthe limit switch 142, which effects de-enerization of the motor, withthe teeth of the pinion 134 and of the gear wheel 132 still in mesh, andwith all of the annular switch tubes moved to their fully energizedpositions. As was hereinbefore stated in connection with the in theopposite direction to effect a turning movement of the switch tubesserially in clockwise direction as viewed from the right hand end of theshaft 107, the action of the various parts of the device issubstantially similar but in a reverse sense. The pin 147 operativelyengages the pin 146 which has been in engagement with the resilientholding member 149 and moves it and the gear wheel and annulartube in aclockwise direction until the teeth on the gear Wheel 121 engage theteeth on the pinion 133, after which further turning movement of thegear wheel 121 and of the switch 109 associated therewith is effected bythe pinion 133. -The pin 147 is held by the member 149 whereby theswitch 111 is held in its normal inoperative position. The annularswitch tubes are thus operated serially or successively until the tube108 has been moved into its normal inoperative position when furtherturning movement is stopped by the de-energization of the motor 128 byreason of the actuation of the limit switch 139 by the pin 141. It isunderstood that the diagram of connections illustrated in Fig. 6 isemployed with'this form of device and that the. mechanism illustrated inFig. 9 is also applicable to it, such modifications being made as arenecessary to adapt it to be operatively associated therew1t The deviceembodying my invention thus provides a relatively simple and compactmeans for controlling the energization of a plurality of light sources,said means comprising a plurality of plural contact, fluid connectorswitches that are successively or serially actuated bya motor that isunder the volitional, manual control of an o erator to effect anydesired timed sequence 0' operation of the successive switches.

The device embodying my invention provides relatively simple meansoperatively associated with the actuating means for limit ing the travelthereof in either direction of operation, and I further provide meansfor indicating the number of light sources energized at any time or forindicating the intensity of illumination corresponding to anypredetermined position of the mechanism.

The device embodying my invention further provides a means for effectingautomatically and predetermined sequence or progress of the energizationor de-energization of a plurality of circuits or light sources, whichmeans is actuated by the mechanism itself.

Such a timed sequence of illumination control may be used as a means ofabstract and emotional expression. In this event the exercise of suchchoice as to make clear the purpose of any illumination succession, willrequire time, thought and labor, and once determined on and embodied ina cam surface can be easily made available to many through suchautomatic mechanical patterns as have been used in the phonograph, orthe auto- 110 matic piano for multiplying a conception once made. Thecam pattern herein disclosed permits of effecting repeated operations ofthe switch mechanism also herein disclosed, according to a light-colorsequence once determined upon as being the most fitting to accompany aparallel expression made siilpultaneously in another art, or for its ownsa e.

Various modifications may be made in the 120 device embodying myinvention without departing from the spirit and scope thereof, and Idesire that only such limitations shall be placed thereon as are imposedby the prior art. 125

I claim as my invention:

1. A switch mechanism comprising a plurality of switches, power actuatedmeans for effecting actuation of the switches, means whereby actuationof one switch initiates ac- 1O I 1,ao4,a47

tuation of a succeeding switch, and means for controlling in apredetermined manner the timing of the successive actuations, said lastnamed means including a controlling 5 pattern member.

2. A switch mechanism comprising a plurality of switches, power actuatedmeans for effecting actuation of the switches, means whereby actuationof one switch initiates actuation of a succeeding switch and means forcontrolling in a predetermined manner the timing of the successiveactuations, said last named means including a controlling pattern memberdetermining the speed of operation of the power actuated means.

3. An electric current controlling mechanism, comprising a plurality ofcurrent connecting units, current modifying means associated with one ormore of said units, power actuated means for effecting actuation of saidunits, means whereby actuation of one unit defines actuation of asucceeding unit and means for controlling in a pre-determined manner thesuccessive actuations, said last named means including a controllingpattern member.

In testimony of which invention I have hereunto set my hand, atPhiladelphia, Pennsylvania, on this sixth day of January, 1927.

MARY HALLOGK GREENEWALT.

